Saturday 8th August marked this years Relief of Derry Parade, through the Maiden City. The band continued its long standing tradition of leading the Browning Parent Club of the Apprentice Boys of Derry. The parade rounded off another successful Maiden City Festival.

As in previous years the Band's first task was the parade of the City Walls. Having met at 09:00 to move off at 09:30. There was a delay though. This year unfortunately small minded, intolerant people attempted to cause disruption by placing a suspicious object on the Walls. It was quickly declared a hoax by Army Technical Officers and the parade got underway. A small drissle of rain looked threatening but gladly didn't materialise into anything heavier and the rest of the day remained dry and very warm.

After the circuit of the walls the Band continued to the War Memorial at the Diamond with the parade for a Wreath Laying Ceremony. After which it was on to St Columbs Cathedral for a Service of Thanksgiving.

The main parade for us began later in the afternoon. In the heat it seemed like a real struggle to some but it didn't stop the band playing well throughout. After a short break in May Street the Parade moved back toward the City Centre and home to the Memorial Hall. Afterwards inside the Mem some of the band entertained the crowds playing any requests thrown at them.

A very long and tiring day, but well worth it and we wouldn't have it any other way!